2,4-D Aquatic Herbicide

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid—or 2,4-D for short—is a chemical formulation that has been used as an herbicide since the 1940s. This chemical was registered with the EPA for aquatic use in the 1980s, and it remains a staple in our arsenal of aquatic vegetation management tools.

How It Works

2,4-D works by causing uncontrolled growth in the plant. Once applied, the vegetation essentially grows itself to death.

Application

2,4-D is used in a variety of different herbicide products under many different brand names. It can be found in both liquid and granular formulations, and we use it to manage both submerged and emergent vegetation including:

• Milfoil
• Pad plants
• Water hyacinth

Restrictions

2,4-D is considered a medium-toxicity chemical. It is safe when mixed and applied properly, though overuse can lead to fish kills.